Fire Science
Associate in Applied Science Degree — Oak Creek Campus

Program code: 10-503-1

This page was last updated in March 2007.

Overview — Fire Science is an associate degree program designed to prepare you for employment with a fire fighting agency. The program’s curriculum is directed at helping you to develop mature, knowledge-based judgment in fire department administration and fire prevention and suppression. The objectives of the program are twofold: to afford opportunities to qualified high school graduates who wish to be employed as firefighters or in related fields where knowledge of fire technology is essential; and to update certified firefighters and fire officers on new and advanced fire fighting techniques, possibly to take advantage of promotional opportunities.

Career Outlook — Fire technology is becoming more complex, and the problems and responsibilities of the fire service are becoming increasingly demanding. Therefore, well-trained and educated firefighters are being sought by public and private concerns alike. Provided you can pass the required medical, physical, and/or written tests, this program could lead to employment with a local fire department. Typically, program graduates qualify for an entry-level fire fighting position, with advancement potential through competitive examination. Job opportunities also exist with industrial plants having safety and fire prevention departments.

Career Preparation and Expected Learning Outcomes — Employers expect you as a program graduate to be able to:

• Apply skills to identify and solve firefighting problems
• Apply tactics and strategies to emergency fire incidents
• Utilize fire protective equipment
• Demonstrate fire safety procedures
• Determine causes of fires
• Demonstrate knowledge of arson investigation procedures
• Respond to emergencies related to hazardous materials
• Demonstrate ability to function as a member of a team
• Demonstrate physical fitness and health consciousness

Preparation for Admission — The following are required for admission to the program:

• A high school diploma or GED
• One year of high school-level algebra
• Demonstration of proficiency in basic skills through a course placement assessment

Additional courses in chemistry and other sciences would be helpful. A good mechanical aptitude is also important. Because fire fighting is a physically demanding career that requires you to pass a rigorous physical endurance examination, you should be in excellent physical condition and have no disabilities that would preclude you from admission into fire service.

Future Opportunities — If you are interested in a baccalaureate degree upon completion of the program, check with a program counselor or advisor, and the institution you plan to attend regarding the transfer of MATC credits.

This program will transfer to one or more four-year institutions.

Possible Careers:

Firefighter
Industrial Fire Prevention
Industrial Safety

Related Programs:

Criminal Justice — Law Enforcement

For more information, call 414-571-4500.

Curriculum effective 2007-2008. 

TOTAL CREDITS: 70

Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.

NOTE: Students who have not been accepted, or have not decided on a program, may begin with GENERAL EDUCATION courses, if course prerequisites have been met.

For information about specific courses, visit MATC Course Descriptions.

For times and locations of classes or to register online, visit INFOnline.